Expedition High Mountains offers an unmatched opportunity to experience the adrenaline of winter ice climbing and rock climbing in one of the world’s most spectacular environments, nestled within Nepal’s stunning Rolwaling Valley.
Winter ice climbing and rock climbing are more than just activities; they are adventures of self-discovery, endurance, and achievement. You’ll be led by the experts at Expedition High Mountains through the icy beauties of the Rolwaling Valley and up sheer rock sides that appear to touch the sky. Rolwaling, also revered as one of the holiest sites of Buddhism, hosts multiple rock cliffs and streams that become a giant chunk of frozen waterfalls by the winter. The sacred Gaurishankar mountain, Lake Tsho Rolpa, and the hidden villages—this adventure to Rolwaling is not only limited to rock/ice climbing.
Come with us on a trip of a lifetime, and you will learn to see the world in a new light, broaden your horizons, and experience one with the Himalaya. Whether you’re an experienced climber trying to reach new heights or a newcomer hoping to experience a life-altering journey, Expedition High Mountains invites you to a world where the ice and rock meet one of the most spectacular marvels of Nepal Himalaya.
Day 1 Arrival at Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft), Gear, and Equipment check
Day 2 Sightseeing at Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
Day 3 Drive to Gonggar (1440 m / 4,724 ft) and trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Day 4 Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
Day 5 Trek to Beding (3692 m /12,113 ft)
Day 6 Rest Day followed by acclimatization Hike
Day 7 Trek to Nagaon (4180 m / 13,714 ft)
Day 8 – 12 Multi-pitch Ice Climbing
Day 13 Rest Day
Day 14 to 16 Multi-pitch Rock Climbing
Day 17 Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
Day 18 Trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Day 19 Simi Gaon to Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
Day 20 Rest Day at Kathmandu
Day 21 International Departure
Day 1
Arriving in Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft), gear and equipment check
Our crew meets expedition members at Kathmandu’s airport, so you won’t have to worry about anything when you arrive. Members spend one night in 4 or 5-star hotel with breakfast before embarking on our adventure. After completing paperwork and gear/equipment preparation and checking, the team can relax at the hotel or take a stroll through streets of Thamel and enjoy the nightlife.
Day 2
Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
Today the team will have sufficient time to explore the world heritage sites of Kathmandu. Your guide will take you to different heritage destinations of Kathmandu Valley. Today you can utilize this day to buy any additional gear and equipment if you missed it or looking for a new one.
Day 3
Drive to Gonggar (1440 m / 4,724 ft) and trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Your shuttle will be ready to transfer you to Gonggar today, Pack your bags early, and after breakfast, we will hop into the shuttle and go towards Arniko Highway. After driving for 6 -7 hours you will reach Gonggar. We quickly carry our bags and then start trekking towards Simi Gaon which is almost 1.5 hours away from Gonggar.
Day 4
Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
Our team will start trekking early from Gonggar. Today, for almost all day, you will be walking through the forest, and ridges through picturesque landscapes. This region is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and rich diversity. Our team will follow well-established trails that are frequently used by local guides and trekkers. After reaching Dongang you can enjoy magnificent peaks and landscapes from the village.
Day 5
Trek to Beding (3692 m /12,113 ft)
This is an uphill climb and likely the most difficult day of the trek due to the altitude difference. This route will take you through rural settlements, giving you the opportunity to understand the local way of life and culture. One of the highlights of this trek is the natural beauty of the area.
Day 6
Rest day followed by an acclimatization hike
Today is a day of relaxation for our bodies. Our team will go on a short acclimatization hike around a neighboring viewpoint to prepare our bodies for the higher camps. Beding’s location in the Himalayas affords several hiking opportunities. You are welcome to explore the surrounding landscape and enjoy the amazing mountain views. We will also be visiting monasteries in the region. Take relaxing walks through the village to see daily life, heritage structures, and the local economy.
Day 7
Trek to Nagaon (4180 m / 13,714 ft)
Our team advances to a higher elevation in the direction of Na Gaon. As you ascend, the valley progressively expands, changing from a V-shaped valley to a U-shaped valley. The valley’s sides are covered in icefalls and waterfalls, while there are no trees at this point, just grassland and a few Juniper bushes here and there. When our team arrives in Na Gaon, we will begin prepping our gear and equipment for ice climbing the next day.
Days 8 – 12
Multi-pitch Ice Climbing
Throughout these days, our team will be going to various ice-climbing sections of the mountain. The choice of which path to take while ice climbing is determined by your existing climbing skills and abilities. After ascending to new and higher altitudes each day, we will make our way back to Na Gaon, where we will be staying.
Day 13 Rest Day
After participating in strenuous activities for numerous days in a row, our bodies are in need of a rest day like the one we are going to have today. The entire day will be spent relaxing with hot meals and warm drinks.
Days 14 – 16
Multi-pitch Rock Climbing
In the course of these days, we will be rock climbing at Rolwaling Valley on a variety of rock climbs of different grades. You may put your climbing skills to the test and put your physical power to the test as you scale these challenging rocks while enjoying the many climbing routes waiting for you.
On the last day of the climb, get all of your belongings organized so that we can get moving early the next day.
Day 17
Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
After you have finished enjoying climbing in Rolwaling Valley, you will continue along the same trail in the direction of Dongang. While traveling back to Dongang, you enjoy some breathtaking landscapes.
Day 18
Trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Trekking from Dongang to Simi Gaon would most certainly include descending through the terrain, which can be simpler in terms of physical exertion but may require careful footing. Even though the scenery may be familiar, the experience can be quite different when traveling in the opposite direction. You might become aware of previously unnoticed details and take pleasure in gaining fresh viewpoints of the mountains and landscapes that are located in the region.
Day 19
Simi Gaon to Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
After a relatively short walk to Gonggar in the early hours of the morning, our group’s shuttle will be waiting to transport us to Kathmandu. You can enjoy the hilly highways and scenery on your route back to Kathmandu. Once you reach Kathmandu, you can have a proper rest in your hotel room.
Day 20
Rest Day in Kathmandu
You’ll have one more day to do any activity you choose in Kathmandu—shop for souvenirs to bring back home, take a stroll through the city, have a massage, or even just rest at a spa. Your leisure day will be followed by a farewell meal in an authentic Nepali restaurant, complete with a cultural show.
Day 21
International Departure
Our employees or an agent will be present to assist you with your departure. You’ll be transported to the airport and offered heartfelt goodbyes in accordance with your flight’s departure times. Before taking off on an international trip, passengers must check in at the airport at least three hours in advance.
● Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace, or Coaster in a private vehicle.
● Accommodation in Kathmandu, Four nights on a Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis
● Full Board accommodation as per itineraries
● English speaking experienced and certified Sherpa Guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder)
● All required group equipment required for the trip; Climbing rope, Ice screws, Snow bar
● Porters: One porter for every two members on all of our climbing trips
● Trip Staff costs, including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
● Personal insurance for Nepali staff
● Energy Supplies (Snickers, Mars, Bounty) and Fresh /Canned Fruits on the Trek
● First aid and emergency medical kit.
● National Park Fee, & all required permits for official documentation.
● All government and local taxes.
● All required Group Climbing Equipment and Gear
● Your Personal Travel Insurance
● Nepal Entry Visa Fee
● Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
● Beverages (soft drinks, mineral water, boiled water, and beer)
● Tips for guide, porters, and driver (customary)
● Any personal expenses not mentioned in the above services
● Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early return from the training (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary
● Any extra cost arising out of natural calamities or cancellation of the program
● All other items not mentioned in the list of ‘Inclusions’
The following gear is recommended for Winter Ice Climbing and Rock climbing:
Climbing Gear
● Semi-technical / Technical Ice Axe
● Technical Crampons
● Climbing Harness
● Carabiners (Lock +Unlock)
● Ascender (Jumar)
● Belay Device
● Prussiks
● Trekking Poles
● Rock Shoes
● Chalk bag with powder
● Helmet
Headwear
● Headlamp (min. 200 lumens) with sufficient batteries (Li-Ion batteries)
● Sunglasses (Polarized/ UV Protected)
● Woolen Cap
● Sunhat
● Buff Scarf
● Balaclava
Bodywear (Clothing/Layering)
● Down jacket
● Down pants
● Gore-Tex set \ Hardshell set
● Insulated mid layer
● Fleece jacket
● Thermal set
● Quick dry (half and full-sleeved)
● T-shirts
● Trekking trousers
● Additionally as per necessity
Handwear
● Liner gloves
● Fleece gloves
● Expedition Gore-Tex gloves (heavy duty)
● Mittens
Footwear
● Trekking shoes
● Climbing shoes (6000er / ice climbing series)
● Camp shoes/ slippers
● Gaiters
● Liner socks
● Woolen socks/ trekking socks
● Summit socks (winter series)
Personal Kit
● Trekking backpack
● Climbing day pack
● Sleeping Mattress
● Hygiene kit (toiletries)
● Sun screen (min. 50 SPF)
● Lip Guard
● Water bottle
● Thermos
● Toiletries
First Aid Kit
● Personal medications
● Personal first aid kit
Miscellaneous
● Camera and associated gears
● Camp knife/ multi-tools
● Binoculars/ magnifiers
● Personal reading accessories
● Games and entertainment mediums
● Dry bag/ compression bags
Expedition High Mountains offers an unmatched opportunity to experience the adrenaline of winter ice climbing and rock climbing in one of the world’s most spectacular environments, nestled within Nepal’s stunning Rolwaling Valley.
Winter ice climbing and rock climbing are more than just activities; they are adventures of self-discovery, endurance, and achievement. You’ll be led by the experts at Expedition High Mountains through the icy beauties of the Rolwaling Valley and up sheer rock sides that appear to touch the sky. Rolwaling, also revered as one of the holiest sites of Buddhism, hosts multiple rock cliffs and streams that become a giant chunk of frozen waterfalls by the winter. The sacred Gaurishankar mountain, Lake Tsho Rolpa, and the hidden villages—this adventure to Rolwaling is not only limited to rock/ice climbing.
Come with us on a trip of a lifetime, and you will learn to see the world in a new light, broaden your horizons, and experience one with the Himalaya. Whether you’re an experienced climber trying to reach new heights or a newcomer hoping to experience a life-altering journey, Expedition High Mountains invites you to a world where the ice and rock meet one of the most spectacular marvels of Nepal Himalaya.
Day 1 Arrival at Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft), Gear, and Equipment check
Day 2 Sightseeing at Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
Day 3 Drive to Gonggar (1440 m / 4,724 ft) and trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Day 4 Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
Day 5 Trek to Beding (3692 m /12,113 ft)
Day 6 Rest Day followed by acclimatization Hike
Day 7 Trek to Nagaon (4180 m / 13,714 ft)
Day 8 – 12 Multi-pitch Ice Climbing
Day 13 Rest Day
Day 14 to 16 Multi-pitch Rock Climbing
Day 17 Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
Day 18 Trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Day 19 Simi Gaon to Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
Day 20 Rest Day at Kathmandu
Day 21 International Departure
Day 1
Arriving in Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft), gear and equipment check
Our crew meets expedition members at Kathmandu’s airport, so you won’t have to worry about anything when you arrive. Members spend one night in 4 or 5-star hotel with breakfast before embarking on our adventure. After completing paperwork and gear/equipment preparation and checking, the team can relax at the hotel or take a stroll through streets of Thamel and enjoy the nightlife.
Day 2
Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
Today the team will have sufficient time to explore the world heritage sites of Kathmandu. Your guide will take you to different heritage destinations of Kathmandu Valley. Today you can utilize this day to buy any additional gear and equipment if you missed it or looking for a new one.
Day 3
Drive to Gonggar (1440 m / 4,724 ft) and trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Your shuttle will be ready to transfer you to Gonggar today, Pack your bags early, and after breakfast, we will hop into the shuttle and go towards Arniko Highway. After driving for 6 -7 hours you will reach Gonggar. We quickly carry our bags and then start trekking towards Simi Gaon which is almost 1.5 hours away from Gonggar.
Day 4
Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
Our team will start trekking early from Gonggar. Today, for almost all day, you will be walking through the forest, and ridges through picturesque landscapes. This region is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and rich diversity. Our team will follow well-established trails that are frequently used by local guides and trekkers. After reaching Dongang you can enjoy magnificent peaks and landscapes from the village.
Day 5
Trek to Beding (3692 m /12,113 ft)
This is an uphill climb and likely the most difficult day of the trek due to the altitude difference. This route will take you through rural settlements, giving you the opportunity to understand the local way of life and culture. One of the highlights of this trek is the natural beauty of the area.
Day 6
Rest day followed by an acclimatization hike
Today is a day of relaxation for our bodies. Our team will go on a short acclimatization hike around a neighboring viewpoint to prepare our bodies for the higher camps. Beding’s location in the Himalayas affords several hiking opportunities. You are welcome to explore the surrounding landscape and enjoy the amazing mountain views. We will also be visiting monasteries in the region. Take relaxing walks through the village to see daily life, heritage structures, and the local economy.
Day 7
Trek to Nagaon (4180 m / 13,714 ft)
Our team advances to a higher elevation in the direction of Na Gaon. As you ascend, the valley progressively expands, changing from a V-shaped valley to a U-shaped valley. The valley’s sides are covered in icefalls and waterfalls, while there are no trees at this point, just grassland and a few Juniper bushes here and there. When our team arrives in Na Gaon, we will begin prepping our gear and equipment for ice climbing the next day.
Days 8 – 12
Multi-pitch Ice Climbing
Throughout these days, our team will be going to various ice-climbing sections of the mountain. The choice of which path to take while ice climbing is determined by your existing climbing skills and abilities. After ascending to new and higher altitudes each day, we will make our way back to Na Gaon, where we will be staying.
Day 13 Rest Day
After participating in strenuous activities for numerous days in a row, our bodies are in need of a rest day like the one we are going to have today. The entire day will be spent relaxing with hot meals and warm drinks.
Days 14 – 16
Multi-pitch Rock Climbing
In the course of these days, we will be rock climbing at Rolwaling Valley on a variety of rock climbs of different grades. You may put your climbing skills to the test and put your physical power to the test as you scale these challenging rocks while enjoying the many climbing routes waiting for you.
On the last day of the climb, get all of your belongings organized so that we can get moving early the next day.
Day 17
Trek to Dongang (2790 m / 9,153 ft)
After you have finished enjoying climbing in Rolwaling Valley, you will continue along the same trail in the direction of Dongang. While traveling back to Dongang, you enjoy some breathtaking landscapes.
Day 18
Trek to Simi Gaon (2000 m / 6,561 ft)
Trekking from Dongang to Simi Gaon would most certainly include descending through the terrain, which can be simpler in terms of physical exertion but may require careful footing. Even though the scenery may be familiar, the experience can be quite different when traveling in the opposite direction. You might become aware of previously unnoticed details and take pleasure in gaining fresh viewpoints of the mountains and landscapes that are located in the region.
Day 19
Simi Gaon to Kathmandu (1330 m /4,363 ft)
After a relatively short walk to Gonggar in the early hours of the morning, our group’s shuttle will be waiting to transport us to Kathmandu. You can enjoy the hilly highways and scenery on your route back to Kathmandu. Once you reach Kathmandu, you can have a proper rest in your hotel room.
Day 20
Rest Day in Kathmandu
You’ll have one more day to do any activity you choose in Kathmandu—shop for souvenirs to bring back home, take a stroll through the city, have a massage, or even just rest at a spa. Your leisure day will be followed by a farewell meal in an authentic Nepali restaurant, complete with a cultural show.
Day 21
International Departure
Our employees or an agent will be present to assist you with your departure. You’ll be transported to the airport and offered heartfelt goodbyes in accordance with your flight’s departure times. Before taking off on an international trip, passengers must check in at the airport at least three hours in advance.
● Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace, or Coaster in a private vehicle.
● Accommodation in Kathmandu, Four nights on a Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis
● Full Board accommodation as per itineraries
● English speaking experienced and certified Sherpa Guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder)
● All required group equipment required for the trip; Climbing rope, Ice screws, Snow bar
● Porters: One porter for every two members on all of our climbing trips
● Trip Staff costs, including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
● Personal insurance for Nepali staff
● Energy Supplies (Snickers, Mars, Bounty) and Fresh /Canned Fruits on the Trek
● First aid and emergency medical kit.
● National Park Fee, & all required permits for official documentation.
● All government and local taxes.
● All required Group Climbing Equipment and Gear
● Your Personal Travel Insurance
● Nepal Entry Visa Fee
● Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
● Beverages (soft drinks, mineral water, boiled water, and beer)
● Tips for guide, porters, and driver (customary)
● Any personal expenses not mentioned in the above services
● Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early return from the training (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary
● Any extra cost arising out of natural calamities or cancellation of the program
● All other items not mentioned in the list of ‘Inclusions’
The following gear is recommended for Winter Ice Climbing and Rock climbing:
Climbing Gear
● Semi-technical / Technical Ice Axe
● Technical Crampons
● Climbing Harness
● Carabiners (Lock +Unlock)
● Ascender (Jumar)
● Belay Device
● Prussiks
● Trekking Poles
● Rock Shoes
● Chalk bag with powder
● Helmet
Headwear
● Headlamp (min. 200 lumens) with sufficient batteries (Li-Ion batteries)
● Sunglasses (Polarized/ UV Protected)
● Woolen Cap
● Sunhat
● Buff Scarf
● Balaclava
Bodywear (Clothing/Layering)
● Down jacket
● Down pants
● Gore-Tex set \ Hardshell set
● Insulated mid layer
● Fleece jacket
● Thermal set
● Quick dry (half and full-sleeved)
● T-shirts
● Trekking trousers
● Additionally as per necessity
Handwear
● Liner gloves
● Fleece gloves
● Expedition Gore-Tex gloves (heavy duty)
● Mittens
Footwear
● Trekking shoes
● Climbing shoes (6000er / ice climbing series)
● Camp shoes/ slippers
● Gaiters
● Liner socks
● Woolen socks/ trekking socks
● Summit socks (winter series)
Personal Kit
● Trekking backpack
● Climbing day pack
● Sleeping Mattress
● Hygiene kit (toiletries)
● Sun screen (min. 50 SPF)
● Lip Guard
● Water bottle
● Thermos
● Toiletries
First Aid Kit
● Personal medications
● Personal first aid kit
Miscellaneous
● Camera and associated gears
● Camp knife/ multi-tools
● Binoculars/ magnifiers
● Personal reading accessories
● Games and entertainment mediums
● Dry bag/ compression bags
